Computer Interpretation of Metaphoric Phrases

5Processing Cross – Modal Verbal Metaphor

This chapter describes how a program called MAP23 (Metaphor Analysis Program), based on the earlier program of Chapter 3, supports the recognition and, more interestingly, the interpretation of cross – modal or cross – domain verbal metaphor in terms of minimal “more literal” paraphrases. Lack of detail or depth in paraphrases is offset by breadth of interpretation. As Hayes [11] argues, it is of little value to restrict one’s research to apparent success within a toy domain; systems should aim for breadth, which in turn will make evident potential areas in which to develop more detail. The discussion of MAP to follow should reveal not only specific challenges to be addressed, but also some specific ways ...